The Trent Hills Chamber of Commerce and the Municipality of Trent Hills are working together to collect data to support whole-home short-term accommodations (STAs) where an owner or tenant does not live on the property. This data will help establish criteria for whole-home STAs, assess municipal staffing needs, and determine licensing requirements.
The Municipality of Trent Hills Council recently approved amendments to the existing bed and breakfast bylaw:
- “Proprietor” defined as the owner, property manager, or any person in care and control of the bed and breakfast establishment, all of whom must reside on the lot.
- A bed and breakfast may offer accommodations with up to three guest rooms within the main dwelling, an approved Bunkie, or one self-contained additional residential unit on the lot.
Here is a link to the amended bylaw: Trent Hills – Document Center (civicweb.net)
Council has also asked staff to develop a plan for allowing options for whole-home STAs. The Chamber is eager to advance the process to include whole-home STA options and has offered our assistance to develop a registry and collect data.
The Chamber will survey STA hosts to collect data on the number, type, occupancy details, and management style of short-term accommodations in Trent Hills. This information will populate a registry created by the Chamber. Individual and property information, including locations, will remain confidential, with only aggregate data shared with the Municipality for analysis and reports.
Once the criteria for whole-home STAs are established and approved by Council, the registry will expedite the process for eligible STAs to become licensed through the Municipality. The registry will transition eligible STAs to a directory listing on the official tourism website, visittrenthills.ca, if the STA owner opts for this option.
If you are a short-term accommodation (STA) owner or operator in Trent Hills, we invite you to participate in our survey. Your input is crucial in helping the Municipality to develop a comprehensive framework for whole-home STAs. Please contact the Chamber at 705-653-1551 or by email nancy@trenthillschamber.ca to participate in the survey.
The Trent Hills Chamber of Commerce serves as the Destination Marketing and Management Organization for Trent Hills, dedicated to showcasing the region and boosting tourism. We offer a range of services and benefits to our members, supporting their growth and success. As a staunch advocate for local businesses, we champion the interests of the business community and ensure their voices are heard within the community and beyond.
For further information contact:
Nancy Allanson, CEO
Trent Hills Chamber of Commerce
705-653-1551
